How To Get The Perfect Mix Every Time

Let’s be honest, getting a perfect mix doesn’t start with plugins or fancy gear...it starts before you even hit record. The secret to a clean, professional mix is preparation. Here’s how to set yourself up for success every time you step into the studio.

First things first, dial in your tone. Whether you’re recording vocals or instruments, make sure the source sounds great before you start tracking. If you’re a vocalist, warm up, know your lyrics, and be confident in your delivery. If you’re playing an instrument, practice the parts until they’re tight. The cleaner the performance, the cleaner the mix.

Next, get your levels right and eliminate distractions. Headphone bleed is one of the most common issues I see in recording sessions. It sneaks into your vocal takes and ruins otherwise great performances. If it happens, there’s no easy fix, most of the time, you’ll have to re-record. Save yourself the headache and monitor your levels carefully from the start.

Microphone placement is just as important. For vocals, try standing about three to five inches away from the mic to get a balanced, natural sound. If you’re recording drums, ask if the kit can be set up the day before the session. This gives you time to check mic positions, test levels, and make adjustments before recording begins. The same goes for guitars, keys, or any other instrument.

When everything is set up right, mixing becomes a whole lot easier. Great recordings practically mix themselves, all you need to do is capture them correctly from the start.

-Aaron On Audio